Malta supports declaration for peace on 100th year anniversary since birth of Nelson Mandela

Posted On September 24, 2018 - Updated 25 September, 2018 9:11am

Report: Ruth Castillo minn New York

The global drug abuse problem was discussed during a high level meeting led by US President Donald Trump.

The meeting was held at the UN where the PN began an intensive week of meetings which will end with his speech to the General Assembly on Thursday.

On the eve of the official opening of the General Assembly, Malta became one of the signatory countries for peace on the 100th anniversary from the birth of Nelson Mandela.

Government leaders from 124 countries, including PM Joseph Muscat, called for global action for the problem of drug abuse all over the world.

At the opening of the event “Global Call to Action on the World Drug Problem”, US President Donald Trump said that the global report on drugs this year stated that the production of cocaine and opium has reached its highest levels and deaths around the world caused by drugs increased by 60% in 15 years – from 2000 to 2015.

Donald Trump said that illicit drugs are linked with organized crime, illegal funding, corruption and terrorism.

President Trump said, “the call is simple. Reduce drug demand. Cut off the supply of illicit drugs, expand treatment and strengthen international cooperation. If we take these steps together, we can save the lives of countless people in all corners of the world.”

UN Secretary General, Antonio Gutteres said that the situation is alarming, pointing out that 450,000 people around the world die every year as a result of an overdose or complications from drug abuse.

On the eve of the official opening of the 73rd UN General Assembly, the leaders adopted a political declaration which renews the values of former South African President Nelson Mandela.

Foreign Affairs Minister Carmelo Abela said that in a globalized world, the lack of peace leaves an effect on all countries.

“There are going to be several speeches on this occasion, including by the PM, so that we too will emphasize the importance of peace. We are here at the UN to focus more on how the UN can be relevant, to safeguard peace where it exists and work towards peace where it does not exist.”

Minister Abela said that, together with other countries including France and Tunesia, Malta is organising an event intended to look at immigration from a different lens and not necessarily in a negative way, but if each country shoulders part of the burden, there are also positive aspects.

The General Assembly opens on Tuesday, with the Maltese PM’s speech expected to be given on Thursday afternoon.